Section 4.2 Social challenges

Learners face a variety of social challenges in school as they navigate the complex transition from childhood to adulthood. During this stage, peer relationships become increasingly important, and many students struggle with issues such as peer pressure, bullying, social exclusion, and the need to belong to a group. These challenges can affect their self-esteem, academic engagement, and overall well-being. Adolescents may also face difficulties in communication, managing conflicts, or interacting with peers from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. In addition, the influence of social media has added new pressures related to image and acceptance. Understanding these social challenges is essential for educators, parents, and counselors to provide appropriate support and promote a healthy school environment where all students can thrive socially and emotionally.

In Rwanda, unplanned pregnancy and prevailing gender norms contribute significantly to girls leaving school. Returning to school after leaving is often difficult, as girls face stigma from both teachers and parents. Many parents already expect girls to perform poorly compared to boys, believing their ultimate role is to become good wives and mothers (USAID, 2014; Laterite and Plan, 2014; Pro-Femmes Twese Hamwe and VSO, 2013). The most reported perpetrator of sexual violence are girls’ current boyfriend or husband/partner (NISR et al., 2016; RWAMREC, 2013). Sugar daddies are especially implicated, as adolescent girls are at high risk of manipulation and abuse by older men who provide money and gifts, leaving girls feeling as if they cannot refuse sex as a ‘pay back’ (Abbot et al., 2015, Ministry of Health, 2011). Other research has found that classmates and teachers also perpetrate sexual violence against girls (Pontalti, 2013).